A Brief History of Lily as a Funeral Flower

Posted on 07/01/2022

A Brief History of Lily as a Funeral Flower

One of the very first choices people make when organising a funeral is from which florist to purchase flowers and which flowers will be used. Those sending their condolences will also be mindful of having flowers delivered. One flower that is so often associated with funerals is the lily. Flowers shops all over the UK will attest to the popularity of the lily for funerals. But why has the flower become such a popular choice of bloom for funerals? Discover the meaning behind this beautiful flower in this brief history of the lily as a funeral flower.

The Meaning of the Lily

The meaning behind the lily spans many centuries, with the ancient Greeks and Romans believing them to symbolise purity and innocence. Lilies are often used in wedding flowers because of their association with purity, but they are also usually associated with funerals. As many believe that dying releases the soul to a state of purity and ultimately, to heaven, the lily is, therefore, a suitable flower to reflect these beliefs.

Greek Mythology and the Lily

Ancient Greek myth states that the lily was formed from the milk of Hera, the wife of Zeus. In Roman mythology, it is reported that Venus, the Roman Goddess of beauty was driven wild with envy at the lily’s beauty and caused it to grow a pistil in an attempt to tarnish its allure.

The Lily and Christianity

The Easter Lily is said to symbolise the Resurrection of Christ. It is, therefore, a prominent feature in churches at this time. It may be for this reason that lilies are used at Christian funeral services.

Using Lilies in Funeral Flowers

Lilies can be included in a variety of sympathy flowers and flower shops will be happy to include them in the different aspects of the floral arrangements. Lilies can be used in the coffin sprays that adorn the top of the coffin in the place of service. When you purchase coffin sprays from your selected flower delivery company, they will usually ask if you would like it to cover half of the entire top of the coffin. Whatever arrangement you choose, lilies are a fitting tribute to the deceased. White lilies are an extremely popular choice when florists are arranging funeral flowers, as white is also associated with the notion of purity and new beginnings. In addition to coffin sprays, lilies can be used in wreaths and funeral bouquets.

Sympathy Bouquets

Although lilies are not considered to be cheap flowers, they are certainly worth every penny. The sweet aroma of a lily and its attractive appearance makes for an elegant addition to sympathy flowers and funeral arrangements. Lilies can also be transported by services that provide flowers by post, which is ideal for friends or family of the deceased that cannot attend the funeral in person.

Flowers with Meaning

As lilies are so steeped in history and meaning, they are an excellent choice of flower for funerals. The flowers symbolise, not only purity and innocence, but also dignity and respect, which only adds to the allure of this most beautiful bloom.

Organising Funeral Flowers

Your chosen flower store should be able to assist you with decisions regarding funeral flowers. If you have a strict budget, let them know so they can show you the types of flowers and designs that will suit you best. If you have very fixed ideas about how you want the flowers to look, ensure you tell your floral artist soon as possible. Reputable flower stores will do all they can to make sure your flowers look precisely as you wish.